Plaza de la Virgen ~ Top Valencia Squares to Visit
Plaza de la Virgen is a pedestrianized square just a few yards away from Plaza de la Reina. The Cathedral of Valencia and the stunning bell-tower of El Micalet tower over this lovely square.
If you are coming from Plaza de la Reina there is a tiny street which leads onto a large building on your left .
On your right is a shaded area where you can sit and enjoy the atmosphere.
The beautiful door of the Apostles (Puerta de los Apostoles) is a little further along on the right . This is where the water tribunal meets in traditonal dress, every Thursday at 12 noon.
The meeting has been performed every week for hundreds of years. Disputes are aired between farmers over the irrigation of water in the huerta – the surrounding agricultural area around the city.
Plaza de la Virgen
Basilica de Nuestra Señora de los Desamparado
Further along is the 17 century, blue domed baroque building of the Basilica de Nuestra Señora de los Desamparado (Church of the Virgin de los Desamparados) Patron of Valencia.
The statue of the virgin is loved and deeply respected and kept inside the church.
On feast days and events such as the Ofrenda of Las Fallas, the statue is paraded through the streets amid a blanket of flowers.
Many other festivals and events are held throughout the year such as the Feast Day of the Patron on the second Sunday in May.
The other side of Plaza de la Virgen is surrounded by cafes and restaurants.
There are open air terraces and at the top of the square is a statue of a man reclining over water fountains which represents the river Turia.
The eight statues have water pouring from jars representing the irrigation channels of the river.
Leading off Plaza de la Virgen is Calle Caballeros and the trendy area of Barrio del Carmen.
The area is good for nightlife as there are many clubs, bars and restaurants. The stunning Palau de Generalatit, seat of the Valencian Autonomous Region government, is behind the square.
